The 2026 inductees represent careers spanning independent radio, journalism, Irish language broadcasting and music presentation.
Michael Crawley, Teena Gates, Helen Ní Shé and Marty Whelan are being inducted into the IMRO Radio Awards Hall of Fame at a ceremony at the organisation’s offices.
Michael led LMFM as chief executive from June 1991 until June 2026 and contributed to the development of several organisations supporting independent radio in Ireland.
He helped establish IRS, INN, Learning Waves and Radiocentre Ireland, and served for six years as chair of Learning Waves after supporting its successful application for Skillnet funding.
Teena has worked across RTÉ, 98FM, Today FM, Newstalk and Network News during a career of almost four decades. She spent 20 years presenting breakfast news at 98FM and served as Head of News until December 2013.
She was also a founder member and board member of Learning Waves Radio Skillnet, delivering training in presentation, writing, interviewing, social media and newsroom skills.
Helen began working with RTÉ Raidió na Gaeltachta in 1986 and continued as a producer and presenter until 2024. She presented An Saol ó Dheas between 2007 and 2024, covering the people, culture and traditions of Gaeltacht communities.
Marty began his RTÉ radio career in 1979 and now presents Marty in the Morning on RTÉ lyric fm. He has also provided Ireland’s Eurovision Song Contest commentary since 2000.
Chris Doyle, Chair of the IMRO Radio Awards Committee, said: “This year’s inductees have each made their mark in very different ways, but what unites them is a massive commitment to audiences, to the highest standards of broadcasting, and to the communities they serve.”
The main IMRO Radio Awards ceremony takes place at the Lyrath Estate Hotel in Kilkenny on Friday 2 October.
